DAY ONE...
Our 2024 GB Ski Tour Teacher Inspection trip began with an early start at London Heathrow Terminal 5 where I met up with 16 special guests. A mix of teachers and family members from across the UK who were ready and raring to go despite the 6am wake up call.
Our BA flight, albeit a little bumpy over the ALPs, was on time and arrived safely at Milan Malpensa on Friday lunchtime. After a quick refuel of food at the local airport Pret we were met by our driver Luca who stopped off at Terminal 2 to pick up an additional 3 guests who flew in from Gatwick and then we headed towards the mountains and began our transfer towards Passo Tonale.
We arrived at the Hotel Piandineve with the light fading and the slopes in the background looking extremely enticing in the twilight. The hotel is a popular choice for school groups, and it was great to see two GB Ski Tours groups enjoying their ski trip during our visit. After a quick bag drop and check in, we made the short 5-minute walk across the road to the ski shop to get fitted into our gear for the next 2 days. A quick and easy process and within half an hour we were walking back to the hotel ski deposit with skis, boots, poles and helmets in hand ready to go for the next day.
Of course, as is customary, GB Ski Tours welcomed everyone into the bar with a complimentary welcome drink where it was the perfect opportunity to meet the rest of the group, swap ski stories and explore the facilities of the Hotel Piandineve. After we all became well acquainted dinner was served at 8pm and the main hotel restaurant which looks out over the Adamello piste was beautifully decorated including giant Christmas tree! The hotel which always pride themselves on great food and the buffet style set up did not disappoint with many guests commenting on the range of options and delicious Italian cuisine.
After dinner it was back to the bar to watch the resident Karaoke night in full swing and a great opportunity for our guests to witness firsthand one of the many Apres activities that the hotel and resort has to offer for school groups. As we all started to head back to our rooms after a long day of travel there was no doubt that we were all excited to get out on the mountains.
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